"Capture the Spirit of our Celtic Culture"

This wonderful 4-day tour takes you into an area of Britain noted for it's timelessness and variety. These are the counties of the great pre-historic ruin like Stonehenge, of England's great maritime tradition, of picturesque fishing villages and elegant seaside resorts. It's here you see the great apple orchards of Somerset, the patchwork countryside of Devon, the awe-inspiring moorlands and the rugged cliff-top coastlines and farmed surfing sandy beaches. Tradition and culture have remained true to the English spirit here and you feel spirited back into another, less busy age. It's also a land of Celtic legend and of the romantic King Arthur whose own life we'll discover

Day One - Nightstop Devon or Somerset Borders

Departing London, we drive through England oldest county, Wiltshire, driving across the amazing Salisbury Plain where you'll see the great prehistoric temple of Stonehenge and a landscape simply littered with ancient burial sites. You'll also see the evidence of Iron Age hill forts, possible sites of where the great Celtic king, Arthur and his Round Table knights took on the Saxon invaders. Next on our programme is the fabulous interior and gardens of 18th century Montacute House. Then, we'll take time to explore some towns and villages of Somerset, around Ilchester, where time seems to have stood still (and where we'll visit a famous cider making farm). This is the area made famous by the author Thomas Hardy and his world is still evident.

Day Two - Nightstop Devon or Somerset Borders

Today we explore 'The English Riviera' visiting the elegant Devon seaside resorts of Torquay and Paignton where many are surprised to see we have palm trees in Britain! There will be time to walk along the magnificent promenade and see why this lovely stretch of coastline is so popular with English and continental visitors. You'll also see an unexpected reminder of D-Day recovered from the sea and hear a sad tale. Also, on today's itinerary, the ancient maritime city of Exeter with its wonderful collection of historic ships, and the 'Mayflower' city of Plymouth.

Day Three - Nightstop Devon or Somerset Borders

Today is a day packed with a range of memorable sights and experiences. You'll cross the beautiful and awesome landscape of the Dartmoor National Park, visiting Castle Drogo en route to the north Cornwall coast. Here, you'll visit Tintagel castle, the reputed birthplace of King Arthur. The castle sits on top of the wild cliffs accessible only by walking. Later, we'll visit a selection of the quaint fishing villages of the north Cornwall and Devon coasts. This is a day where photographers need to ensure a plentiful supply of film! Finally, our day in Cornwall would not be complete if we didn't stop for a famed Cornish 'pastie' somewhere on route, perhaps in a thatched-roofed country pub?

Day Four - Return to London

On today's itinerary is the mystic town of Glastonbury, site of Arthur's burial and 'New Age' capital of England. Here you'll see the ancient Abbey and the mysterious 'Tor'. Nest, we'll visit Wells and its famed Norman 12th century cathedral before travelling the short distance to the stunning city of Bath. You'll have time to explore this elegant Georgian city and it's Roman remains before we drive back to London partially by the old coaching road.

Please note that this itinerary is subject to slight change according to time of year, local conditions and group preferences.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE

Your tour price includes all transportation, including airport transfers (subject to our general conditions). Accommodation in three star or equivalent style lodgings. All rooms en suite, unless specifically informed at the time of booking your tour. Full English breakfasts on every morning. Three course dinners every evening. All tips and taxes included on group bills, excluding those you may wish to give to your guide/companion and any additional tips you may feel desirous of giving to locals for exceptional service (your guide will advise). All entrance fees when accompanied by the guide, excluding any itemised as optional in the itinerary.

DEPARTS:
EVERY SATURDAY FROM MARCH TO OCTOBER 2009

Free pick up from most Central London Hotels.

Price
£445 per person based on twin room
£460 Per person based on single room
(£229 - Child sharing adult room )
Small groups (max 12) so book early.

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